21 of the Best English Vineyards to Visit in 2025

by Ellie Smith / April 25, 2025

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

Wine tasting isn’t just about the drink, it’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and discovering stories behind each bottle. People have been travelling for wine for centuries, from the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany to the cellars of Bordeaux. But in recent years, a quiet revolution has been happening closer to home. English vineyards, once overlooked, are now producing award-winning wines and offering experiences that rival Europe’s best, all without crossing the Channel. For this list, we’re focusing on the vineyards in the South-East and around London, where the region’s climate and rich history are shaping a new era of wine. Discover just how impressive English wine has become, and explore the best English vineyards in this area that deserve a spot on your travel list.

English wine on the rise

It’s official: English wine is no longer the underdog. Vineyard visits in the UK jumped by 55% over just two years, hitting 1.5 million in 2023 alone. What was once a curiosity is now a fully-fledged wine scene with international swagger.

There are over 1,000 vineyards scattered across the UK today, with a record 87 new ones registered just last year. And they’re not just producing for the local pub. British wines brought home 143 medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2023, the wine industry’s global stamp of approval.

But the real showstopper? Sparkling wine. Sales have fizzed up by 187% since 2018, going from 2.2 million bottles to a cool 6.2 million in 2023. Today, over three-quarters of English wine production is focused on sparkling. So yes, if you’re getting Champagne vibes from a Sussex bottle, you’re not imagining it.

Add to that a growing list of global wine powerhouses investing in the English countryside. Pommery, Taittinger, Henkell Freixenet, and even California’s Jackson Family Wines have all snapped up plots in southern England. Taittinger opened a swanky new visitor center in Kent in spring 2025, and Blenheim Palace (yep, the one with Winston Churchill ties) is on the hunt for a vineyard partner to launch its own wine label.

Award-winning bottles, boutique experiences

So, we’ve got the medals. We’ve got the fizz. But here’s the kicker: English vineyards aren’t just about the wine anymore. They’re turning into proper getaways, the kind with spa hotels, tasting menus, and a decent chance of running into someone who says things like “notes of elderflower” unironically.

The vineyard experience has leveled up. We’re talking estate tours, fine dining, food pairing festivals, and wilderness retreats that feel more luxury lodge than rustic farm. Some even host live music nights, just in case sipping award-winning wine under the stars is your idea of a solid Friday. This isn’t just clever marketing. It’s part of a wider trend where wine tourism now makes up a quarter of total income for UK vineyards.

Our top English vineyards for a perfect day out

1. Chapel Down

Location: Tenterden, Kent

As one of England's largest and most renowned wineries, Chapel Down offers a range of still and sparkling wines. Their guided tours provide insights into the winemaking process, culminating in tastings that showcase their award-winning selections. The on-site restaurant, The Swan, offers gourmet meals to complement the wines.​

How to get there: Take a train from London St. Pancras to Headcorn (approx. 1 hour), followed by a 20-minute ride to the vineyard. ​

Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £30 per person

2. Gusbourne Estate

Location: Appledore, Kent​

Consistently earning international accolades, Gusbourne is celebrated for its exceptional sparkling wines. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the vineyards and state-of-the-art winery, followed by tastings in a modern, elegant setting.​

How to get there: Take a train from London St. Pancras to Ashford International (approx. 38 minutes), then a 20-minute ride to the estate.

Pricing: Estate tour starts at £120 per person

3. Ridgeview Wine Estate

Location: Ditchling Common, East Sussex​

With over 25 years of winemaking history, Ridgeview specializes in sparkling wines that have graced royal occasions. Their tours offer a deep dive into traditional methods, complemented by tastings paired with local Sussex cheeses. The Rows & Vines restaurant provides a delightful culinary experience amidst the vines.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Victoria to Burgess Hill (approx. 55 minutes), then a 10-minute ride to the vineyard. 

Pricing: Private group tour starts at £350 (minimum 10 guests)

4. Bolney Wine Estate

Location: Haywards Heath, West Sussex

Established in 1972, Bolney is one of England's oldest vineyards, producing award-winning still and sparkling wines. Their comprehensive tours include walks through the vineyards and tastings of five wines paired with local produce. The Eighteen Acre Café offers panoramic views and a delectable menu.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Victoria to Haywards Heath (approx. 45 minutes), followed by a 15-minute ride. ​

Pricing: Guided tour starts at £60 per person

5. Balfour Winery

Location: Staplehurst, Kent​

Known for its sparkling rosé, Balfour Winery offers self-guided walks through vineyards, orchards, and woodlands. Their tasting room provides a range of wines, ciders, and beers produced on the estate. Seasonal tours and events enhance the visitor experience.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Charing Cross to Marden (approx. 1 hour), then a 10-minute ride. ​

Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £70 per person

6. Denbies Wine Estate

Location: Dorking, Surrey​

As one of England's largest vineyards, Denbies boasts 265 acres of vines. The estate offers indoor winery tours, outdoor vineyard tours, and a 360° cinema experience. Two on-site restaurants provide dining options with vineyard views.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Waterloo to Dorking (approx. 50 minutes), then a short ride or a 20-minute walk. ​

Pricing: Group tour starts at £11.50 per person

7. Nyetimber

Location: West Chiltington, West Sussex​

Often rivaling its Champagne counterparts, Nyetimber is synonymous with premium English sparkling wine. Open days are limited and highly sought after, offering exclusive insights into their meticulous production process.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Victoria to Pulborough (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes), followed by a 10-minute ride.

 Pricing: Open day tour starts at £50 per person

8. Hattingley Valley

Location: Alresford, Hampshire​

Specializing in sparkling wines, Hattingley Valley combines traditional methods with innovative techniques. Tours include a visit to the vineyard, winery, and a tasting session. Their eco-friendly approach and commitment to sustainability are commendable.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Waterloo to Basingstoke (approx. 1 hour), then a 20-minute ride. ​

 Pricing: Winery tour and tasting experience starts at £30 per person

9. Squerryes Estate

Location: Westerham, Kent​

With a history dating back to 1731, Squerryes produces elegant sparkling wines. The estate offers tours that delve into its rich heritage and winemaking philosophy, concluding with tastings overlooking the picturesque gardens.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Bridge to Sevenoaks (approx. 25 minutes), then a 20-minute ride. ​

 Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £32 per person

10. Tinwood Estate

Location: Chichester, West Sussex​

Adjacent to the South Downs National Park, Tinwood is renowned for its sparkling wines. Daily tours include vineyard walks and tastings on the decked veranda with views of the vines.

How to get there: Take a train from London Victoria to Chichester (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes), followed by a ride of approximately 15 minutes.

Pricing: Vineyard tour and wine tasting starts at £21 per person

11. Albury Organic Vineyard

Location: Shere, Surrey​

Nestled in the scenic Surrey Hills, Albury Organic Vineyard specializes in organic and biodynamic practices. Their small but exquisite selection includes sparkling wines that have garnered critical acclaim. Tours offer insights into sustainable viticulture, and tastings are often accompanied by local cheeses.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Waterloo to Guildford (approx. 40 minutes), then a 20-minute ride to the vineyard.​

 Pricing: Vineyard tour and tasting starts at £25 per person

12. Bluebell Vineyard Estates

Location: Uckfield, East Sussex​

Known for their Hindleap sparkling wines, Bluebell Vineyard offers guided tours through their picturesque vineyards and winery. Visitors can enjoy tastings of their award-winning sparkling and still wines in a relaxed setting.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Victoria to Cooksbridge (approx. 1 hour), followed by a 20-minute ride.​

Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £23.95 per person

13. Oxney Organic Estate

Location: Beckley, East Sussex​

As the largest organic vineyard in the UK, Oxney produces a range of still and sparkling wines. Their commitment to organic farming is evident in the quality of their wines. Tours include walks through the vineyards and tastings in their charming tasting room.​

How to get there: Take a train from London St. Pancras to Ashford International (approx. 40 minutes), then a 40-minute ride.​

 Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £30 per person

14. Tillingham Wines

Location: Peasmarsh, East Sussex​

Tillingham is a progressive, biodynamic vineyard that blends traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The estate features a stylish restaurant and offers accommodations, making it ideal for a weekend retreat. Tours provide a comprehensive look at their innovative practices and diverse wine portfolio.​

How to get there: Take a train from London St. Pancras to Rye (approx. 1 hour), followed by a 10-minute  ride.​

 Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £35 per person

15. Hambledon Vineyard

Location: Hambledon, Hampshire​

As England's oldest commercial vineyard, Hambledon focuses on producing premium sparkling wines. Their tours delve into the rich history of the estate and the meticulous process behind their acclaimed wines.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Waterloo to Petersfield (approx. 1 hour), then a 20-minute ride.​

Pricing: Tours start at £15 per person

16. Simpsons Wine Estate

Location: Barham, Kent​

Combining traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, Simpsons Wine Estate produces exceptional still and sparkling wines. Their elegant Glass House Tasting Room offers panoramic views of the vineyards during guided tours and tastings.​

How to get there: Take a train from London St. Pancras to Folkestone Centra (approx. 55 minutes), then a 20-minute ride.​

Pricing: Wine tasting experience starts at £25 per person

17. Danebury Vineyards

Location: Stockbridge, Hampshire​

Not to be overlooked, this boutique vineyard focuses on producing limited quantities of high-quality still and sparkling wines. Set on historic estate grounds, Danebury offers intimate tours that provide a personalized experience of their winemaking process.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Waterloo to Winchester (approx. 1 hour), then a 30-minute ride.​

Pricing: Vineyard tours with afternoon tea or private lunches, starts at £45 per person

18. Greyfriars Vineyard

Location: Guildford, Surrey​

One of Surrey’s finest, Greyfriars specializes in sparkling wines crafted from classic Champagne grape varieties. Their tours include walks through the vineyards, visits to the modern winery, and tastings in their atmospheric chalk cellar.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Waterloo to Guildford (approx. 40 minutes), followed by a 15-minute ride.​

Pricing: Tour and tasting tickets start at £24 per person 

19. Woodchester Valley Vineyard

Location: Stroud, Gloucestershire​

While slightly farther afield, Woodchester Valley is worth the trip for its award-winning still and sparkling wines. The vineyard offers comprehensive tours and has on-site accommodation for those wishing to extend their visit.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Paddington to Stroud (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes), then a 10-minute ride.​

Pricing: Tours and tastings start at £55 per person

20. Stanlake Park Wine Estate

Location: Twyford, Berkshire

A stone’s throw from Reading, Stanlake Park offers a range of wines from their extensive vineyards. Tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking process, followed by tastings in their charming wine bar.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Paddington to Twyford (approx. 30 minutes), then a 5-minute ride.​

Pricing: Wine tour and tasting starts at £20 per person

21. Oastbrook Estate Vineyard

Location: Robertsbridge, East Sussex​

Reflecting the owner's heritage, Oastbrook offers a unique blend of English wine and Brazilian hospitality.. The vineyard produces a variety of still and sparkling wines, and tours often include tastings paired with Brazilian-inspired canapés.​

How to get there: Take a train from London Bridge to Tunbridge Wells (approx. 50 minutes), followed by a 30-minute ride.​

Pricing: Tour and tasting starts at £35 per person

* Just a note: Prices listed are accurate at the time of publication but may change. We recommend checking directly with the vineyard for the latest details.

Pro tips for a perfect wine tasting tour

Before you go

• Check train times: They can vary more than you'd expect, so always double-check before you set off.

• Secure your ride in advance:  availability in rural areas can sometimes be limited. It's often advisable to pre-book rides, especially for return journeys. You can opt for a comfortable chauffeur service if you want to keep things stress-free.

• Know the hours: Vineyard opening times and tours can change with the seasons. Always check the winery’s website before planning your visit.

• Skip perfume or cologne: As strong scents interfere with wine aromas.

  At the vineyard

• Ask questions: Don’t be shy! Winemakers love to talk about their process, grapes, and what makes their wine unique.

• Try something new: Even if you’re a die-hard red drinker, give that white or rosé a chance. You might be surprised.

• Start light, end bold: Taste whites before reds, and dry wines before sweet ones so you don’t overload your palate too early.

During the tasting

• Pace yourself: You don’t have to finish every pour. It’s okay (and normal) to pour out.

• Hydrate: Water is your friend. So are crackers or palate cleansers if provided.

Other good-to-knows

• Dress for the terrain: Vineyards can be dusty, hilly, and sunny. Comfortable shoes and sun protection go a long way.

• Don’t feel pressured: You can enjoy the experience without buying anything, though if you love a bottle, buying directly supports the winery.

• Ask about shipping: Especially if you’re traveling, many vineyards can ship bottles home for you.

The safe, stylish way to visit English vineyards 

Wine tasting and driving don’t mix and after a day spent sampling vintages, getting behind the wheel simply isn’t responsible. Many of the best vineyards are also off the beaten path, with limited public transport and few transfer options, especially on busy weekends. With Blacklane, you don’t have to think twice. Our professional chauffeurs offer a discreet, comfortable alternative that lets you enjoy the full experience without compromise. We also provide reliable city-to-city rides and airport transfers, so whether you're heading to your next destination or catching an early flight, you're in good hands.    

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